By Carter Kucier, ’23, staff writer 

VALE, LVC’s student-run record label, has officially signed their new artist for 2023.  

Tatiana Gonzales, a sophomore music performance and creative writing major, was chosen out of the three finalists to sign with VALE for a year-long contract after a successful performance at the VALE showcase. 

Each spring semester, VALE holds auditions for a new artist. Gonzales had auditioned before, and that helped them this time around.   

 “This year, I already knew exactly what to expect from the process and applied with much more preparation than the previous year,” Gonzales said. “Still, that doesn’t mean it was easy. I spent several of the past months trying to perfect my music and lyric-writing processes so that I could present VALE with something that I was proud of during auditions.” 

Gonzales also shared a bit about themselves, and their journey thus far as a musician. They discussed the struggles many musicians often face as they pursue music as a career. 

“I’ve wanted to be a musician since I was three years old,” they said. “I remember singing and dancing whenever and wherever I could, and telling everyone that I’d be a singer when I grew up. Of course, no one took me seriously. I was told I’d grow out of those aspirations, but those statements only made me more determined.” 

This audition and the artist showcase are their first experiences performing their original work for others, and Gonzales admits they are proud of the work they’re presenting publicly. Gonzales expressed excitement for the upcoming challenges and the chance to take new steps in their musical career. They are hoping that this experience with VALE will give them greater insight into where their career could go from here. 

“I’d (like) to gain a notion of who I’d like to be as I continue down my path as a performer, and how I should navigate such a path,” Gonzales said. “All my life, I’ve wanted to be a recording artist. Now, let’s see where that takes me.” 

Gonzales is looking to produce rock music, though that may change. 

“Ultimately, I want to play around and discover what works for me,” Gonzales said. “That doesn’t have to be just one concept.” 

Those interested in following Gonzales’ journey as the current VALE artist can follow the official VALE social media accounts for updates on future performances and upcoming releases.